The Free Company, alongside indie publisher PerfectGen, has officially launched STARIUM into Early Access on Steam today. The ambitious sci-fi RPG blends pixel art exploration, bullet hell action, and a branching narrative where every choice matters, according to a press release.
STARIUM drops players into the galaxy of Talara as a mysterious alien newcomer. The galaxy runs on “Starium,” a volatile fuel harvested from dying stars at a devastating cost. Freedom doesn’t come cheap; survival depends on what you accomplish in just 21 in-game days. Players are free to fight, sneak, or talk their way through encounters, shaping their story through a dynamic dialogue system inspired by Fallout: New Vegas and Disco Elysium.
Combat draws heavily from roguelike bullet hells like Enter the Gungeon and Nuclear Throne. Every run offers endless build possibilities thanks to over 30 weapons, 55 armor pieces, and a deep system of abilities that stack wild effects, from freezing bullets to explosive ricochets. Meanwhile, exploration of Talara’s alien world, Rhalara, reveals hidden bosses, side dungeons, and dangerous relics. With 25 challenging bosses already in the Early Access version, STARIUM demands skill and experimentation.
Solo developer Arrjan Tarach describes Early Access as central to the project’s development. “As a solo developer, I want to build the game with player feedback and suggestions in mind to get more ideas and thoughts than just my own,” he explains, citing inspirations like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Core Keeper. The Early Access build already includes a complete campaign with branching choices, multiple side quests, and a robust character creation system.
Future updates promise more of everything: quests, weapons, dungeons, bosses, expanded skills, item passives, and even enhancements for stealth or pacifist playstyles. A permanent NPC kill system is also planned, alongside quality-of-life improvements like controller rebinds and visual refinements. The full release, currently slated for Q1 2026, aims to expand Talara further with new locations, classes, and narrative arcs.
STARIUM also supports local co-op, letting players survive Talara’s dangers through Steam Remote Play or side by side on a couch. STARIUM is available now in Early Access on Steam. Players can check out the launch trailer here and wishlist the game on Steam to follow its development.